MYNORTHWEST NEWS

Gov. Inslee open to reforming car tab system in Washington state

Oct 21, 2020, 7:37 AM

Car tabs, sound transit, No on I-976, license plate shortage...

Washington state is currently copting with a license plate shortage. (MyNorthwest photo)

(MyNorthwest photo)

Governor Inslee says he remains open to reforming the car tab system in Washington state.

That could be positive news for many voters in the state as it means car tab fees may end up being reduced after all, just not from Tim Eyman’s voter initiative.

Washington State Supreme Court strikes down $30 car tabs

“I do believe that we ought to look at options to reform that system, answer the frustration of people in Washington, and at the same time find a way to replace that financial source that keeps our transportation system running,” Inslee said.

Last week, the state Supreme Court struck down voter initiative I-976, which aimed to reduce car tab fees to $30. It was found to be unconstitutional for violating the single subject rule and inaccurate ballot title. I-976 was approved in November 2019, with 53% of voters in favor of the measure.

Washington leaders, lawmakers react to decision to strike down I-976

However, Inslee said the initiative never would have actually brought $30 car tabs, even if it had been found to be constitutional. The governor described it as a “con job.”

If the cost of car tabs is to be reduced, Inslee made it clear that the state will need to find ways to replace the transportation funds that would be lost.

“People’s frustration is abundant, we ought to recognize that. I do believe we should be open to reforming the car tabs system,” he said.

“We need to do that in combination with a way to replace funds that would otherwise make it impossible for us to keep our bridges from falling in the river, and potholes taking over I-5, and keeping our buses running,” Inslee added.

Gov. Inslee expects reform to come up during the next legislative session.

The KIRO Radio Newsdesk contributed to this report.

MyNorthwest News

Everett boy missing...

Frank Sumrall

4-year-old Everett boy missing, police worried he’s in danger

Police and Search and Rescue crews are looking for a missing four-year-old boy they suspect could be in danger.

15 minutes ago

Image: The awnings of a store advertise the sale of lottery tickets, including Mega Millions and Po...

Steve Coogan

Lottery jackpots update: Powerball prize jumps again after $1.1B Mega Millions win

A lottery jackpots update: The Powerball prize reached an estimated $935 million ahead of Saturday night's drawing.

10 hours ago

Photo: The Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center....

James Lynch

King County’s plan to close youth detention center met with fierce backlash

The King County Law and Justice Committee received a final report on Executive Dow Constantine's plan to close a youth detention center.

11 hours ago

Image: A cargo ship is stuck under the part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after ...

Associated Press

Authorities identify 2 bodies recovered at site of Baltimore bridge collapse

A major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below.

13 hours ago

Photo: Mountaineer Jim Whittaker has died at 95....

Gene Johnson, The Associated Press

Lou Whittaker, among the most famous American mountaineers, has died at age 95

Lou Whittaker, a legendary American mountaineer who helped lead ascents of Mount Everest, K2 and Denali, has died at age 95.

14 hours ago

File photo: Former Sen. Joe Lieberman speaks in Washington on Jan. 18, 2024....

Associated Press

Former Sen. Joe Lieberman, Democrats’ VP pick in 2000, dead at 82

Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in 2000, has died.

14 hours ago

Gov. Inslee open to reforming car tab system in Washington state